After losing his family, Darius started living on the streets, satisfying his hunger through theft. The streets had become his mother, father, and sibling. Five years passed, and little Darius was now 10 years old. One day, while the kingdom's guards were inspecting the Decay Zone, they noticed Darius.
Guard: "Hey, little one! What are you doing around here? Are you living alone on the streets in the midst of the Decay?"
Darius: "Yes… I've been living alone for five years. These streets are no longer streets—they are my home."
The guard, surprised, asked further:
Guard: "Where is your family? Why didn't you ask for help?"
Darius: "They died because of the sickness. When they were gone, I was left alone. I didn't ask for help because I had no one to ask. Beyond a few villages, there's the stone wall—you don't allow passage. Who could I have asked for help?"
The guard felt pity and made him an offer:
Guard: "We have a training camp for young guards. Would you like to come? You seem to have some immunity against the Decay sickness, so it's not a problem. There, youngsters like you receive training and become people who serve the kingdom. Would you like to come with me?"
Darius was very happy about this offer but tried not to show it. He accepted. This was the first step in keeping the promise he had made to himself, and it would become the biggest turning point of his life.
When Darius first stepped into the camp, his eyes widened. Neatly arranged tents, children laughing around the fire, and steaming cauldrons… His small body, accustomed to the silence of the streets, now felt the presence of life.
The first to approach him was Ralen.
> Ralen (smiling): "Are you new? Don't worry, this place won't leave you weak. But surviving here requires more than just fists—you have to use your mind too."
Darius (slightly nodding): "I know… but I don't just want to survive anymore. I came here to learn more."
Ralen (patting his shoulder): "That's the right answer. We're all here for the same reason."
Soon, the others gathered around him:
Kiora looked him over and spoke with a slight smile.
> Kiora: "I see determination in your eyes. I hope you can keep up with us."
Darius: "I'll do my best. I can't promise, but I'll try."
Kiora (laughing): "Trying is enough; the rest will follow."
Lyven chimed in cheerfully:
> Lyven: "Hey, new kid! Tomorrow morning, line up for soup after me. You'll get the hottest ladle. Little secrets like that."
Darius (smiling shyly): "Thanks… nothing like this happened on the streets."
Lyven: "You're not on the streets anymore, brother."
Tavric approached with his large frame, but his tone was gentle.
> Tavric: "You may look small, but there's strength in your eyes. Here, it's not about size, it's about heart. My door is open if you want to train with me."
Darius: "It's good to hear that. Thank you."
Gorath's stern gaze softened as he spoke:
> Gorath: "I may look harsh, but don't worry, we never leave anyone alone. Everyone here watches each other's backs."
Darius (relaxing for the first time): "I never imagined a place like this… maybe I finally belong somewhere."
That night, while sitting by the food cauldron, he joined in the children's jokes. After years of loneliness, he was able to smile for the first time.